History of CFK
The southernmost institution of the “Great 28” in the Florida College System, The College of the Florida Keys was established in 1965 as “Monroe Junior College.” Discover CFK's story and become part of the next chapter.
Discover CFK
Did you know? Since 1965, The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) has been a cornerstone of higher education in Monroe County and beyond. CFK:
- Is a member of the Florida College System & the southernmost college in the continental U.S.
- Serves a 130-mile island chain, connected by 42 bridges, from Key Largo to Key West
- Sits on a scenic oceanfront main campus in Key West, plus satellite locations in the Middle and Upper Keys and virtual platforms for online instruction
- Offers bachelor's & associate degrees, certificates, non-credit courses, & workforce training
- Specializes in region-driven programs — marine science, diving, marine engineering, renewable energy engineering, business, hospitality, culinary arts, nursing, construction technologies, and public safety
- Is a small, diverse learning community with low faculty-to-student ratios
Mission, Vision, & Values
The College is committed to student-centric academic programs and services, workforce development, continuing education, diverse partnerships, electronically delivered instruction, and sustainable practices that prepare students for personal success and responsible citizenship.
Keys Currents
Keys Currents is an annual publication of The College of the Florida Keys. The award-winning magazine features inspiring stories of CFK students, alumni, employees, partners, and friends. There are stories about accomplishments, new initiatives, and the impact CFK is making in the Keys community and throughout the world.
Explore The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys has so much to offer, from Key West or the Lower Keys to Marathon, Islamorada and Key Largo. Each island has its own vibe and fame. All of them extend southernmost hospitality to all who visit, live, work, or study here!
Florida’s Answer: The National Higher Education Call to Action
On August 3, 2026 U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, sent out a National Call to Action. Florida became the first state to formally answer this national call and welcomes it as an opportunity for its postsecondary institutions to publicly communicate the high standards expected of institutions serving students in Florida. The College of the Florida Keys stands with Florida’s public higher education institutions in affirming the principles outlined in Commissioner of Education Henry Mack’s August 18, 2026, systemwide response.